Celtic are interested in signing Everton midfielder James McCarthy on loan this January, as reported by website TEAMtalk.

McCarthy is well known as having grown up a Hoops supporter but a move to Celtic Park has never worked out throughout his career, which started at Hamilton Accies.

Forging a career for himself down in England, the 41-cap Republic of Ireland international impressed for Wigan Athletic before making the switch to Goodison Park.

He’s made over 130 appearances for the Toffees but in recent seasons has found his first-team opportunities limited.

TEAMtalk reckon Celtic and West Ham are leading lengthy list of potential suitors this month, as Everton prepare to let him leave on a temporary basis to gain regular action after a long-term leg break injury.

Earning around £50,000-a-week according to salary tracker Sportrac, what kind of wage we’d have to contribute could be a sticking point in any potential deal, but surely we have the advantage given the midfielder’s emotional attachment with the club.

At 28 years of age and with hundreds of senior appearances, he has the kind of experience and quality that could really help us in a title race, even if his signing would only be on a short-term basis. For more news relating to West Ham, visit our sister site Hammers Live.